HPSF's appeal to Soren

A social organisation working for welfare of the poor and backward class today asked Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren to take all necessary steps to ensure food and safety of the tribals before launching anti-naxal operation in the state.

In a letter faxed to the chief minister, Ram Singh Munda, president of Helpless People's Service Forum (HPSF), appreciated the preparations for launching the operation 'Green Hunt' in Jharkhand on the directive of the Centre but urged the government to take into consideration the plight of the tribals, who live in the forest and the foothills.

These people earn their livelihood by selling firewood, leaves, tooth picks collected from the forest, Munda said, apprehending that the operation against naxalites could lead to loss of life and property of the tribals, who may even lose their source of income.

He said the government should take initiative for group insurance of tribals living in areas where the operation was to be launched in the state.

In case of loss of life of any innocent person during the operation, Munda demanded that at least Rs 2 lakh of the insured amount be given to the next of kin of the bereaved family.

Besides, the government should also ensure supply of free foodgrains and other essential commodities among the families living in and around the area of operation, he said.